I love Paris because it changed my life. I went there for the first time when I was 16. I’d been talking about going there since I was 5 and I finally got the opportunity with my high school French class. It was the first time I ever flew on an airplane. I remember the buzz of the big city. I remember the smell of diesel. I remember the feel of history. You couldn’t escape it. It sat on your chest like an elephant and left you speechless. Around every corner was a distant century trying to tell it’s story.
Paris made me feel alive. It made me feel like I belonged and for 16 year old who was a bit lost in her life, this was a big deal. The food felt more real. Every morning a tray of breakfast was brought to our room; hot tea or hot chocolate, one croissant, one piece of baguette, some real butter and some jam. I mean, it was perfection. Every little thing moved me and I wanted to feel that way forever.
I loved going to the museums and seeing the art, but I’d much rather wander the streets. I’d choose a church crypt over the Louvre. I’d rather go to an outdoor market than eat in a restaurant. I wanted raw and real.
I love the darkness and the blanket of night, imagining hidden absinthe parlors, red velvet and smokey narrow streets . I love the sound of the early mornings and the vendors opening shops and starting their day. I discover new secrets every time I visit. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of visiting this city of love, sorrow, joy, complication, simplicity and so much more.
You should come with me. It just might change your life.
Menagerie Travel 
You’ve got me longing for Pareeee! I was there alone and my favorite memory was walking back to my hotel late at night from Monmarte to the Champs Elysees. Everywhere I looked a postcard. I sat opposite St. Augustine church and smoked a cigarette, drunk on wine and the city.